Every year around this time I take my parents to The Second City. Dad loves the irreverent and topical comedy, but cringes when they break the fourth wall for a surprise audience interaction. His greatest fear is being onstage and, for the past 10 years, he’s survived the improv bullet. Mom loves raunchy comedy. The dirtier the jokes, the harder the laughs.
I’m pleased to report that “A Clowncar Named Desire,” the 37th revue presented on Second City’s e.t.c. stage, appealed to both my parents’ sensibilities. Of the dozen or so revues I’ve seen over the past several years, this one ranks pretty highly. It also features probably one of my favorite casts in some time with a standout performance from a woman named Brooke Breit who has Kristen Wiig’s fearless comedic chops and Tina Fey’s smart, understated tone. Keep an eye on her.
At any rate, attending a Second City performance is an experience unto itself. Visit ChooseChicago.com to see some of my Second City survival tips >